DE102020119690A1 - functional bracelet - Google Patents

Abstract

Functional wristband with functional electronics integrated into a wristband for providing a radio key and/or a radio transponder for actuating one or more third-party devices. The functional bracelet is particularly suitable for use as a combined radio key for one or more cars, garage doors and alarm systems. The functional electronics include a radio key device, a near-field communication device, an RFID protection device and a power supply. The functional wristband can be programmed without contact and/or with a cable.

Description

The invention is in the field of portable and contactless operating devices, such as radio keys or remote controls.

Various types of radio keys are known from practice. In the automotive sector in particular, radio keys are often used to lock or unlock car doors or a garage door. As a rule, the owner of a car has one or more radio keys per vehicle with which he can open a door or the trunk of the vehicle at the touch of a button.

Various automobile manufacturers also offer special radio keys that are detected in the vicinity of the vehicle in order to enable certain vehicle functions. For example, the door of a vehicle can be opened by hand when the vehicle detects the correct remote control key in a certain close range around the vehicle or in the vehicle. Similarly, the vehicle can be started with the push of a button without inserting a key. Car manufacturers offer such technologies, for example, under the names or brands "Keyless Go" or "Comfort Access".

Owners of several vehicles usually have several keys. The radio keys commonly used by automobile manufacturers are often large and take up a lot of space in a trouser pocket or other bag. Common keys are also scratch and water sensitive.

In addition to the car key, users often have additional radio keys or near-field transponders, for example for garage doors or alarm systems.

The object of the present invention is to provide an improved device for providing one or more radio keys.

A functional wristband is disclosed that includes a wristband with integrated functional electronics. With the functional electronics, one or more third-party devices can be controlled via radio technology.

The functional electronics are integrated into the wristband in such a way that they can be worn comfortably on the user's body. Preferably, the bracelet is worn on the user's wrist. This gives the user several advantages. Worn on the body, the wristband is easily accessible to the user at all times. A wristband, unlike a separate key, can be worn without pockets and is less likely to be misplaced or stolen.

To provide the function, the functional wristband includes functional electronics that can be integrated into the wristband in a compact design. The functional electronics include a radio key device, a near-field communication device, an RFID protection device and a power supply.

The electronic components can be integrated in one or more electronic components. The electronic components are preferably integrated into the bracelet so that they are dustproof and watertight. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the bracelet consists of a rubber-like material (for example silicone or caoutchouc), which can be cast or otherwise shaped around the electronic components in particular.

The functional electronics are preferably integrated into a flexible and/or elastic part of the bracelet. Compared to mounting the electronic components (e.g. in a watch case) with a bracelet, the integration of the components into the bracelet itself has advantages in terms of interchangeability and sealing.

The radio key device is designed to send an adjustable control signal to actuate the function of one or more external devices. The function actuation can be triggered both by a user action on the function wristband and by a function request from the third-party device.

The functional bracelet can be used particularly advantageously both as a radio key, in particular with one or more function keys, and as an identification means for access control to the third-party device in question.

The control signal can in particular include a control instruction (for example a command to open a garage door), identification and/or authentication information (for example a key code) and/or decoded data of a function request signal.

In particular, private key information can be stored in the functional electronics in order to decode a request.

The functional electronics preferably include one or more electronic data storage devices. In particular, programs and/or functional data can be stored on the data memory. Advantageously, functional data for the operations of several, especially under Different, third-party devices can be stored in the functional electronics.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the functional wristband can be coupled to one or more third-party devices. The functional bracelet is particularly advantageous for use with various third-party devices from different manufacturers. For this purpose, the functional wristband can be programmed or loaded with user-specific data.

The wristband can be programmed with one or more key codes. The key codes can come from a vehicle or its manufacturer, for example. Alternatively or additionally, the key codes can also be read out by a remote control belonging to the third-party device or a radio key.

Communication with the functional wristband can be both contactless and with cable-based data transmission. The functional wristband preferably includes a combined connection for data and/or power supply (e.g. USB-C).

A frequent problem when using radio-based identification technology (e.g. RFID) is the unauthorized tapping of sensitive data. The functional wristband includes an RFID protection device. The RFID protection device is designed to prevent data from being read out by unauthorized readers.

Advantageously, only queries from authorized transmitters or authorized query signals are accepted. For example, a transponder on the functional wristband can only react to specific transmission frequencies.

The RFID protection device can, in particular, block, disrupt and/or ignore an unauthorized RFID signal.

The near-field communication facility of the functional bracelet can be used for wireless communication with other devices. In particular, data or signals can be exchanged via the near-field communication device via a radio standard with controllable third-party devices, programming devices and/or compatible electronic devices (e.g. smartphones or smartwatches).

The functional wristband includes one or more data processing devices. The individual data processing devices can include both active and passive electronic components. Active components can be supplied via the integrated power supply.

Passive components can be passive RFID transponders, for example. Depending on the embodiment, active RFID transponders can also be used.

The functional wristband is advantageously designed to be dustproof and/or watertight. For this purpose, in particular, existing plug receptacles are designed to be lockable. The functional bracelet can be supplied with power or data with both wireless and wired technology. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the functional wristband includes a watertight, lockable USB-C connection.

The functional bracelet is particularly practical for the user during their free time. Especially in sports, the functional wristband can be carried in various situations without the user having to worry about losing their key or damaging it through sweat, moisture or impact.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the functional bracelet can also be designed as a watch bracelet. For this purpose, the functional wristband can be designed in one piece or in several pieces.

An embodiment of the functional wristband that can be attached to different watches is particularly advantageous, with the electronics functioning independently of the watch. The functional electronics of the functional wristband are preferably self-sufficient. If necessary, data (e.g. via a radio interface) is exchanged between the functional wristband and a watch.

Alternatively or additionally, the functional bracelet can be worn as a pure bracelet without a watch.

Depending on the embodiment, the function wristband can include one or more function switches. The function switches can be designed as pushbuttons or buttons, for example.

A particular advantage of the functional bracelet disclosed here is the individual adaptability of the object. The functional wristband can be adapted to the user's preferences and purposes in various ways. In this way, the functional wristband can be sold in particular as an additional item, independently of the respective third-party device to be controlled. The functional wristband, for example, can be used in various ways directions (e.g. cars, garages, alarm systems) and is advantageously compatible with vehicles from different manufacturers. Owners of high-quality vehicles also like to acquire externally visible ornaments related to their vehicle. The usual radio key, which is stowed in the trouser pocket, is only suitable to a limited extent for displaying one's own vehicle. A bracelet worn on the wrist can be worn at all times in a variety of situations.

The user also has a particular advantage in terms of convenience, since he does not have to look in his trouser pocket or handbag to operate the radio key.

The use of the functional wristband is also particularly safe thanks to the RFID protection device. Even skeptical users can be convinced of the use of a radio key.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings and dependent claims.

character list

• 1: Ein einteiliges Funktionsarmband mit in das Armband integrierter Funktionselektronik;
• 2: Eine vorteilhafte Ausführungsform eines Funktionsarmbands mit Funktionstasten und einem individuellen Beschriftungsfeld;
• 3: Eine Ausführungsform des Funktionsarmbandes als Uhrenarmband einer Smartwatch;
• 4: Eine Seitenansicht eines geschlossenen Funktionsarmbandes in gekrümmter Form;
• 5: Eine Seitenansicht eines Funktionsarmbandes in einer Ausführungsform als Uhrenarmband.

The invention is shown by way of example and schematically in the drawings. Show it:

• 1 : A one-piece functional wristband with functional electronics integrated into the wristband;
• 2 : An advantageous embodiment of a functional wristband with function keys and an individual inscription field;
• 3 : An embodiment of the functional bracelet as a watch strap of a smartwatch;
• 4 : A side view of a closed functional wristband in a curved shape;
• 5 : A side view of a functional bracelet in an embodiment as a watch bracelet.

Detailed description

Based 1 the functioning of a possible embodiment of the functional bracelet can be shown. The functional bracelet (100) includes a flexible bracelet (110). The wristband (110) attaches to the wrist or other location on the user's arm with one or more clasps (115).

Alternatively or additionally, the bracelet (110) can also be designed in one piece without a clasp or separation point.

The bracelet preferably encloses the arm and nestles as comfortably as possible against the skin. The functional wristband can in particular be designed in different size increments for different arm circumferences.

As an alternative or in addition, the functional bracelet can be elastically stretchable so that it can be pulled over the wrist. In this way, in particular, a one-piece, closed form of the functional wristband can also be realized.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the functional electronics (120) are formed on one or more flexible printed circuit boards. In this way, the electronic components can advantageously be distributed in a space-saving manner in the flexible bracelet.

The components of the functional electronics (120) are preferably connected via, in particular flexible, switching elements (125). The switching elements (125) can include conductors for supplying data and/or energy as well as electronic components.

The functional electronics (120) can include both active and passive components. Active components have an energy supply. Passive components (e.g. passive transponders) can also function without a power supply. Passive components can, in particular, be briefly supplied with an electromagnetic field by an external signal generator in order to generate a response signal.

In a preferred embodiment, one or more electronic components of the functional wristband require a power supply at least at times. The functional electronics (120) preferably include one or more active transmitters and/or transponders and/or data processing devices. In particular, these active components can be supplied via an integrated power supply (124).

The power supply (124) can in particular include a rechargeable battery. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the power supply (124), in particular the battery, is also designed to be flexible.

Depending on the embodiment, the functional bracelet can be charged without contact and/or with a charging plug (132). In an advantageous embodiment, the functional wristband includes a lockable connector receptacle (131). The plug receptacle can, for example, be connected to a bracelet fastened closure can be closed watertight and/or dustproof.

The functional wristband is advantageously at least splash-proof or even waterproof to a certain depth.

The functional electronics (120), in particular the radio key device (121), can emit a control signal (S). An external device (200) can be controlled with the control signal. The external device (200) can be a vehicle or the controller of a garage door, for example. For example, a lock can be unlocked with the control signal (S).

The control function can be implemented in different ways. Various parts of the function can be contributed by the external device (200) and/or can be provided by the functional electronics (120).

For example, the presence of the functional wristband in the vicinity of an external device can be detected using a suitable control signal (S). For this purpose, for example, the external device (200) can emit a function request signal (A) into the environment. The functional electronics (120), in particular the function key device (121) and/or the near-field communication device (122), is preferably designed to react to a function request signal (A) from a controllable external device (200).

The functional electronics (120) advantageously include a transponder. The functional electronics are preferably designed to identify a compatible functional request signal (A) and to send back a suitable control signal (S).

The control signal (S) can in particular include decoded data of the function request signal (A). Different encryption and/or authentication techniques can be used for authentication.

As an alternative or in addition to reacting to a function request signal (A) coming from outside, the function wristband (100) can also send a control signal (S) triggered by a user input on the wristband.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the functional bracelet can be programmed with an external programming device (300). The programming of the function wristband via a radio connection is particularly advantageous. Common near-field communication standards can be used for this purpose, for example. Alternatively or additionally, the functional bracelet can also be programmed via a wired connection. The use of a widespread USB-C connection, with which the bracelet can be supplied with power and data can be transmitted, is particularly advantageous.

The RFID protection device (123) is designed to block and/or disrupt and/or ignore impermissible read signals (X).

2 shows a possible embodiment of the function bracelet (100) with several function switches (140). The function switches (140) can be designed as pushbuttons, for example. If the user actuates one of the function switches (140), the functional electronics (120) can emit a corresponding control signal (S).

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the bracelet (110) includes an inscription surface (145). The inscription surface (145) is advantageously suitable for being printed or engraved. Processing with laser engraving, for example, is particularly advantageous.

For example, brand names, logos or the name of the owner can be individually inserted on the inscription surface (145). In this way, the functional bracelet can be adapted to the individual wishes of the buyer.

3 shows a further particularly advantageous embodiment of the functional bracelet (100). The functional bracelet can be designed in particular as a watch strap.

A functional bracelet that can be attached to different watches is particularly advantageous, with the electronics functioning independently of the watch. Alternatively or additionally, the functional bracelet can be worn as a pure bracelet without a watch.

The bracelet (110) can be made in one piece or in several pieces. Accordingly, the functional bracelet includes a suitable closure device (115).

In a multi-part embodiment, the functional electronics (120) can be distributed over one or more parts of the bracelet (110).

All of the functional electronics (120) are advantageously integrated into the bracelet (110).

An embodiment of the functional bracelet with one or more is particularly advantageous the other clock connections (150). The functional bracelet (100) with the watch connection (150) can advantageously be adapted to one or more common watch models. The clock connection (150) can in particular comprise an exchangeable adapter.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, data can also be exchanged between the functional wristband and a smartwatch (400).

The clock connection (150) is preferably a purely mechanical connection to a clock (400). This is advantageous in order to keep the function of the wristband independent of the electronics or software of the third-party products (watches, smartwatches). Coupling preferably only takes place via standardized radio interfaces (e.g. Bluetooth or NFC).

The functional bracelet can be attached to the watch, in particular a smart watch (400). The functional wristband preferably includes a suitable connection point for interchangeable watch wristbands from common manufacturers.

The functional bracelet preferably has its own independent power supply. The energy supply is in particular independent of a watch to which the bracelet can be attached.

the 4 and 5 show possible embodiments of the functional bracelet in a side view in the closed position.

In this closed position, the functional bracelet can be worn on the arm. The bracelet (110) completely encloses the arm of the wearer or up to a watch (400). The watch (400) is preferably not part of the functional bracelet.

The functional electronics (120) are advantageously distributed in the flexible area of the bracelet (110). For this purpose, the functional bracelet can in particular include one or more flexible circuit boards and/or flexible chips and/or flexible antennas and/or flexible transponders.

The components distributed in the bracelet (110) are preferably connected via flexible switching elements (125).

The function wristband can include one or more function buttons (140) on the surface.

The features disclosed in the drawings and the exemplary embodiments described above can also be combined with one another in further combinations. In particular, individual features of the exemplary embodiments described can also be omitted and/or replaced by other disclosed features.

Reference List

100

wireless key bracelet

110

Bracelet (one or more parts)

115

closure

120

functional electronics

121

radio key device

122

near field communication facility

123

RFID protection device

124

power supply

125

switching elements

130

charging port

131

Plug receptacle (lockable)

132

charging plug

140

Function switch, push button, button

145

Lettering surface, laser engraving

150

clock connector

200

Controllable external device (e.g. car, garage door)

300

programming device

400

clock, smart watch

A

function request signal

S

control signal

X

Invalid readout signal

Claims (17)

Functional wristband for actuating at least one function of one or more external devices (200) that can be controlled by means of radio technology, in particular a car, a garage door or an alarm system, the functional wristband (100) being a wearable wristband (110) and functional electronics ( 120), the functional electronics (120) comprising a radio key device (121), a near-field communication device (122), an RFID protection device (123) and a power supply (124), the radio key device (121) being designed to transmit an adjustable control signal (S) for functional activation of the foreign device (200). functional bracelet claim 1 , wherein the functional electronics (120) comprises a flexible board and / or one or more flexible electronic components. functional bracelet claim 1 or 2 , wherein the radio key device (121) comprises one or more, in particular programmable, transponders. Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more, in particular programmable, functional switches (140) for actuating the radio key device (121). Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the radio key device (121) can be actuated by an external function request signal (A) and/or by a functional switch (140) on the functional bracelet (100). Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the radio key device (121) is designed to send an identifiable and/or locatable control signal (S) in response to a functional request signal (A). Functional wristband according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional wristband (100) can be localized in a predetermined close range on the external device (200). Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional electronics (120), in particular the radio key device (121) and/or the RFID protection device, can be controlled and/or programmed via the near-field communication device (122). Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional electronics (120) can be coupled to one or more identifiable external devices (200). Functional wristband according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the RFID protection device (123) is designed to block and/or interfere with and/or ignore impermissible request signals (X), in particular from third-party devices that are not coupled. Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the RFID protection device (123) is programmable. Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more permissible identification features of an external device (200) and/or a function request signal (A) can be stored in the RFID protection device (123). Functional wristband according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plug receptacle (131), in particular a lockable one, for connecting a charging plug (132) for power supply and/or data transmission. Functional wristband according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional wristband, in particular the power supply (124), comprises a contact-based and/or a contactless, in particular inductive, charging connection (130). Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracelet (110) forms an elastic casing for the functional electronics (120), in particular made of a material comprising silicone and/or rubber. Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracelet (110) is designed as an exchangeable watch strap. Functional bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional bracelet (100) is designed to lock and/or unlock a car door, a garage door and/or an alarm system.

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